Gone… But Never Forgotten

On my desk, beside my computer I have the memorial card that was handed out at Paula’s funeral on June 15th, 2005. There isn’t a day that passes that I don’t think about her.

 

One reality in life is death.

 

Paula was my best friend, she died from a brain aneurysm, complications that arose during a Sickle Cell crisis 6 years ago. I remember getting the phone call on June 6th. She was in the hospital on average 3-4  times a year fighting a sickle cell crisis, however, this time I knew it was different. I left work immediately, jumped on a bus and within a few hours I was at the hospital in Ottawa.

 

She was 33.

 

33 is way too young to die.

 

Too damn young!!! It still makes me mad.

 

Paula had a sharp tongue and a beautiful smile. Those that had the pleasure and blessing of knowing her can attest to that. She lived life to the fullest. She taught me many things over the course of our friendship, but the most important lesson I learned was to never take time for granted and to enjoy your family and loved ones every time there is a moment allowed.

 

She told me her fear was that she’d be forgotten. Forgotten she is not.

 

Paula was an amazing women, a wonderful mother, a great friend, one of the strongest people I know, feisty in her ways but loyal and loving. She would have done anything for me and I for her.

Paula ~ I miss you so much you have no idea, I watched the video of you a few times over today. Big Sigh!!

One of Paula's wishes was to donate her organs when she passed. Her wish was granted and she helped to extend the lives of 3 recipients by having her liver and kidneys donated. It really did help to know that in her death she helped 3 people live.

 

She was a true hero.

 

http://www.giftoflife.on.ca/en/

 

Love and miss you Miss P. xoxoxoxoxoalways

 

Most of us will never know when our time is approaching, which is all the more reason to live like we mean it now. You do NOT need permission to follow your dreams and to do what you love. Don’t wait until you feel like you have no choice, start living for today.

Poem on the memorial card above:

Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.

Mary E. Frye

 

Miss P. ~ this was one of the first songs we kicked back and listened to on repeat. I love that it spun into a 2 hour conversation about love and life, first crushes and friendships. I always think of you when I hear it.